Welcome to radiology, a vital and growing part of modern medicine. If you've just started your MD, DNB, or DMRD, this guide is for you.
Many people may say radiology isn't clinical. That’s not true. You will need to understand parts of surgery, medicine, gynecology, pediatrics, and more. The better your clinical knowledge, the better your reports.
This guide will help you get started and avoid common mistakes.
Start with Books
Begin with simple, clear books. Don’t jump into random online videos or PDFs.
-
Felson’s Chest Roentgenology
-
Rumack’s Diagnostic Ultrasound
-
Core Radiology or Sutton Textbook
-
Imaging Atlas of Human Anatomy
-
Pocket Atlas of Sectional Anatomy (Müller)
Use digital tools only after you know the basics.
Know Normal Before Abnormal
Before reading about diseases, learn normal anatomy:
-
Use anatomy modules from trusted sites
-
Check Radiopaedia’s anatomy sections
-
Use “Learning Radiology” by Herring
Useful Online Resources
-
Radiopaedia: Acute abdomen, chest X-rays, GI tract
-
TeamRads: Basics, MSK X-rays, Anatomy
-
DNB/MCI curriculum: Syllabus, thesis guide, exam samples
-
Download and update your logbook regularly
In the Department
-
Be regular and active in your duties
-
Learn from technicians and seniors
-
Make your own presentations. Don’t copy
-
Use search tools for making better slides
Daily Practice
-
Keep a diary of what you’ve learned
-
Follow up on cases
-
Learn how to take consent correctly
-
Assist with scans and procedures as much as possible
Mental Health and Workload
-
Long hours and emergency duties are hard. Rest and eat well
-
Don’t ignore stress. Talk to someone if needed
Research and Thesis
-
Choose your thesis topic early
-
Present cases at local CMEs or conferences
-
Use Grammarly or similar tools for writing and editing
Legal and Professional Tips
-
Get professional indemnity insurance
-
Maintain case logs and report clearly
-
Use templates and avoid vague words
Join Societies Early
Many radiology societies offer free access to residents:
-
RSNA
-
ESR
-
ASNR
-
IRIA
-
STR
They offer journals, webinars, and conference discounts.
What to Avoid
-
Don’t jump to CT or MRI before learning X-rays and ultrasound
-
Don’t attend big conferences too early
-
Don’t rush. Understand what you read
Tools That Help
-
Grammarly: for checking grammar in thesis and reports
-
Notion or Obsidian: for digital notes
-
Word/PDF tools: learn how to format well
Your first year is the most important. Focus on getting your basics right. Ask questions. Be curious. Radiology is not just about images—it’s about helping people.
Make the most of your residency. These years will shape your career.